Testimonial #13: Van Brown

Van Brown has been an actor, director and public speaker in various roles on stage, radio and television. His notable performances as Mark Twain continue to surprise audiences with unique satire, irony and wit.

How has your life been indelibly touched by a teacher who utilized the arts for whatever reason and acknowledge how they were instrumental in breaking the mold to allow you to become who you are today?

Even in the second grade, we still went to the library for story time. One particular day, Mrs. DePass, a wonderful librarian with a marvelous musical voice, selected “Jim Baker’s Blue Jay Yarn” by Mark Twain. Perhaps an aggressive piece of literature for seven year old children, but how delicious it was to be treated to something more than baby stories! Well, I about fell out of my chair with laughter. Afterwards, I went to her and asked if she had any more stories like that. She said, smiling: “Oh, we have hundreds of them. Soon, I’ll be able to introduce you to several that you will be able to read for yourself.”

That was about 1955. Twenty years later, I began performing as Mark Twain, and still do. Perhaps along the way, someone may have been encouraged to read because of it. I would hope so. Here’s a funny story:

About First Online with Fran

Frances McGarry's blog First on Line with Fran offers opportunities for you to join her in discussions on how ordinary people are doing extraordinary things in The Arts to make our world a richer, deeper, better place to live.